Sara, from Redhill, Surrey, added: "I didn't even know it was possible to charter a train but one of the committee members found out about it.

"It would have cost a bit more than a normal ticket, about £50 per person, and we would only have been insured to sell seated tickets not standing ones, but it would have been a stress-free way of getting to London and back."

The plans have been stopped because TCC was unable to find drivers or get rolling stock from Southern's owners - Govia Thameslink Railway.

London Victoria, pictured, has been much emptier than usual because of the strike action

The group is now looking for alternative solutions such as chartering a coach.

This week Southern warned passengers not to attempt to travel on its network as all services are cancelled today and Friday.

Talks are being held today between Southern, Aslef, and RMT members as they seek to bring about a resolution.

Trade union RMT has asked the Office of Road and Rail to investigate claims Southern cancelled 90 per cent of south coast services over the weekend due to "staff shortages" when there were train crew available.

A peak time day return ticket from Redhill to London Victoria normally costs £21.20.

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